You’re hitting the street in workout gear but you didn’t actually hit the gym?! Congrats, you’re in on one of the most widespread and worst kept secrets ever. There’s no shame in slipping on a pair of comfy, flattering compression leggings and calling a bodega run your cardio for the day. Just take some of the effort you’d put into your barre class and spend it on your street style. Here’s the boost you need to get started.

ACTIVELY CHIC

You can kick off a casual look with a big city vibe with leggings in basic black. A soft, drapey cami adds ease to the silhouette and a menswear-inspired piece like a military parka sharpens the edge. Monochrome accessories give it all a clean finish.

READY TO PLAY

When you’re in the mood for something more colorful, put on a bright printed pair of compression leggings and go for a look that’s light and fun. A graphic tee that’s dripping with attitude is a perfect match, along with a heavy-fade jean jacket. Lace up some white tennies, swipe on some gloss, sling a backpack over your shoulder and you’re good for a brunch date or some music in the park – even a trip to the gym if you get a sudden burst of energy.

What’s your favorite activewear to not work out in? How do you keep your athleisure look from being fresh-from-the-gym sloppy? Spill it in the comments!

You’ve dressed for a lazy afternoon of couch time, but your friends have plans to get out for the day and they’re headed to your place to pick you up. It doesn’t take much to put together a street-ready look and still hold onto that lounge level of comfort. Here’s how.

Switching out your sweats for a pair of joggers is a smart start. From there, details like color blocking, contrasting piping and hits of slick fabric can give your whole look an edge. They also send the message that you put a little effort into your ensemble (so if you actually spent most of your energy just getting vertical, no one’s the wiser).

A rugged bracelet, an all-purpose messenger bag, classic shades and a clean, fresh pair of kicks – easy add-ons like these individualize your street style and give it some focus. But keep in mind that the trick to impressing with your casual look is to look like you didn’t try too hard. Enter the gray hoodie.

What tried-and-true fashion tricks have you come up with? Share in the comments.

Aiming to crush it at the office? It’s easier to get the attention you deserve when your style’s as strong as your professional cred. Nothing tops off your confidence like knowing you look good. Damn good. Check these tips for an of-the-moment look that’ll earn you points from work hours to happy hour, and that’ll get people talking in all the right ways.

PUSH THE BOUNDARIES

If your workplace’s dress code leaves some room for creative license, grab it. Try putting a sophisticated sleeveless jacket and wide leg pant with a cheeky graphic tee and sneakers. Clever, fun, love it. And work pieces like these can do double duty on nights and weekends.

LACE UP

A lace-trimmed blouse or cami under a tailored jacket puts you in line with the lingerie-inspired trend and lets you be your sexy, feminine self – without showing too much.

DON’T MAKE A FUSS

When you’re running late or a big project is dominating your brain, it’s good to have a few easy, polished pieces to fall back on. Think a classic blouse, a tailored pant and your most capable-looking accessories. Done.

Got an Express look that makes you feel unstoppable at the office? Don’t keep that to yourself – share in the comments or on Instagram.